We will be holding 'The 2nd Sori-1 JAPAN Hokkaido Wood Sled Championship'. This championship is hosted by the 'Japan Wood Sled Association (General Incorporated Association),' an organization centered around former sledding athletes, with the aim of popularizing the sport of sledding, which is in danger of declining in Japan. It is co-hosted by the Winter Sports Festival Executive Committee and supported by the Sapporo Luge Federation.

Snow luge (wood sled) is a snow sport widely popular in Europe and the United States. Although it is still not very familiar in Japan, in recent years, trial events and competitions have begun to be held at ski resorts nationwide. Its features are that 'anyone can easily slide from the first day,' 'slalom maneuvering is possible like with skis or snowboards,' and 'children and adults alike can participate,' and it is gaining attention as a new snow activity that even beginners in winter sports can enjoy.

In this championship, not only will there be a straight-line speed race, but also a slalom competition that requires sled handling skills. It is a fitting championship to decide the No. 1 snow luge (wood sled) competitor in Hokkaido.

■ How to Participate: First-come, first-served at the championship venue reception from 10:00 on Sunday, March 22. *Those wishing to participate in the Expert Division must practice sliding at the trial session and only athletes certified as capable of slalom sliding can participate.


The championship will use wooden sleds called 'snow luges' and will be held in the following two divisions.
■ Expert Division
A technical race where competitors slide in a slalom, avoiding flags, and compete for rank based on the total time of two runs.
Only athletes who have practiced sliding at the trial session and are certified as capable of slalom sliding can participate.
*In case of a large number of participants, it may be based on the time of a single run.

■ Challenge Division
A straight-line speed race with four people starting simultaneously.
A tournament-style race format where the winner advances, which is exciting to watch.

The championship will be held as a mixed-gender event, with about 70 participants expected.


March 22 (Sun)
10:00 Championship registration opens (first-come, first-served)
14:00 Competition briefing
14:05 Championship begins
After the race: Awards ceremony